Gianni Infantino's Trump Ties Explained as President Backs FIFA Boss
The FIFA president is battling criticism from fans and soccer bodies over a now-abandoned plan to sell stakes in the World Cup.
President Donald Trump has publicly backed FIFA boss Gianni Infantino, despite criticism from soccer associations worldwide over FIFA's handling of the 2026 World Cup and the president's proposed sale of a 20 percent stake in future competitions to private investors. Infantino, who presided over the most successful World Cup ever, has attracted controversy for suggesting Trump should receive the Nobel Peace Prize and awarding him the FIFA Peace Prize during a ceremony at the Kennedy Center.
Concerns about the relationship between Trump and Infantino escalated during the World Cup, particularly after Trump called Infantino to request a review of a red card given to American striker Folarin Balogun. FIFA has denied any wrongdoing and stated that his continued presidency is crucial for the sport's future success.
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